This article goes out to my fellow Long Islanders who understand how amazing our summers are. Sometimes we do not realize the beauty of this place we call home. From sunny mornings on the beach, to cool and windy weather, and cotton candy sunsets, it is truly a gorgeous season. How lucky we are to wake up each day and live so close to various beaches, towns, restaurants, and our family. Being away at school for a year helped open my eyes and notice all of the great things the island has to offer. In other terms, during the last 18 years I took advantage of all the places and scenery I failed to notice in the moment. This article goes out to all of the little things I have learned to appreciate since I came home from school. I have only been home for a month and I have already adventured to new places. Everyday is a new opportunity to explore and create memories full of laughter. I believe that there is no other place I would want to return to and fulfill my happiness each summer. Everything I dream of is right here in front of me and it has been all along. My favorite place: Long Island
The following are the few places I look forward to visiting when returning home:
1. Smiths Point
On a hot, sunny, summer day, all of your friends pack into the car and drive out to this ocean Windows down, blasting music, looking forward to running into the crashing waves, the best is yet to come
2. Cedar Beach
A small beach, close to home, where you find your family listening to 80's music on the weekends, children on the playground, people fishing off their boats, enjoying every minute of summer.
3. Pirates Cove
Whether you take your boat out to this beautiful, scenic area, or you find the secret spot you can hike from. Either way, families enjoy the peaceful area on a warm, summer day.
4. Melville Memorial Park
After eating a sandwich at Se-Port, walking around this pond is filled with joy. A peaceful spot to bring friends and family, maybe for a picnic!
5. Avalon Park
Hiking out here after eating scones at Robinson's Tea Room, enjoying the beauty and the yarn wrapped around the trees as you walk towards the Labyrinth.
6. West Meadow Beach
Imagine sitting on the lifeguard stand, listening to the water crash against the rocks, while watching the sunset.
7. Ralph's Italian Ices
Basically grabbing Ralph's anytime your in Port Jefferson, trying all of the different flavors while waiting for the day the Cantaloupe ice comes into season.
8. Tanger Outlets
After a long week, shopping at your favorite stores, or even searching for a summer job here.
9. Jones Beach
From the Air Show, to hikes, a day on the beach, or even seeing your favorite artist in concert.
10. Bald Hill / Pennysaver Amphitheater
Another place to spend a day listening to great music with even greater friends. If you like country music, I'll be sure see you at Freedom Fest
11. The Hamptons
South Hampton, East Hampton, Westhampton. From Shopping, to walking through town, or even spending a few days on the beach.
12. Montauk
Montauk, the end of the island. What better place to experience? The lighthouse, the beaches, the stores.
